There are three types of fellowship offering -- thanksgiving (12-15), a vow (16-19), and a freewill offering (16-19). The Israelites are to bring one of each kind as an offering, a contribution to the Lord (14a). The fellowship offering belongs to the priest who splashes the blood of the fellowship offering against the altar (14b). If any meat of the fellowship offering is eaten on the third day, the one who offered it will not be accepted. It will not be reckoned to their credit; for it has become impure; the person who eats any of it will be held responsible (18). Moreover, no one unclean can partake in the offering. Verses 19-21 discuss regulations for touching unclean meat.

Practically speaking, it is wise not to eat the meat after 3 days, for Canaan was hot and the food could become rotten. Also, spiritually speaking, these regulations teach us how to enjoy God's mercy and peace. We must come with a thankful heart and contribute to the ministry freely with a vow or promise to God in our hearts. Refraining from fellowship with unclean people means that our fellowship with God and others should be based on his word. Peace is a spiritual blessing that is obtained and maintained through godly fellowship. When we stay near God, we enjoy his peace.


Application: Father, thank you for your great mercy. Help me to celebrate and enjoy your peace in fellowship with believers.
One Word: How to enjoy God's mercy and peace